This special tour took place in advance of Friday’s evening’s Philadelphia Auto Show Black Tie Tailgate at which at least one of “Pope Francis’ Philly FIATs” will be auctioned to benefit several Archdiocesan ministries.

In showing “Pope Francis’ Philly FIAT” to these special students, Donna Crilley Farrell, Executive Director of the World Meeting of Families – Philadelphia 2015, utilized interactive story-telling to share the tale of Pope Francis’ trip to Philadelphia and to explain the significance of this important yet humble vehicle.

Students participated in the story by sharing famed photos of Pope Francis during his visit to the city for the World Meeting of Families – Philadelphia 2015. At the conclusion, each student was given a Vatican City flag and all gathered around the famed FIAT for a “selfie,” which was “tweeted” to Pope Francis’ @Pontifex account.

“The opportunity to share this moment with these wonderful students truly reflects the power of Pope Francis’ visit to Philadelphia last September,” said Farrell. “As the Holy Father encouraged us to love and care for others, especially those most vulnerable and marginalized in society, I could not be more thankful to David Kelleher and the Philadelphia Auto Show for opening its doors to us and helping us to support so many worthy causes, including our schools of special education.”

The Schools of Special Education, operated by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and managed in-part by the Faith in the Future Foundation, allow students to immerse themselves in the wonder of their surroundings, the love of their communities and the joy of learning that every child shares. Each of the Archdiocesan schools of special education delivers a strong suite of academic, sensory and spiritual instruction.

During the annual Philadelphia Auto Show Black Tie Tailgate (Friday, January 29 at 8:45 p.m. EST), one of “Pope Francis’ Philly FIATs” will be auctioned to the public to benefit select ministries and missions of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. The proceeds from the auction of “Pope Francis’ Philly FIAT” will benefit four missions of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, including 50 percent of the proceeds benefitting Catholic Charities Appeal, and the remaining 50 percent will be broken evenly amongst Mercy Hospice, Casa Del Carmen, and Schools of Special Education. In addition to the auction, the second FIAT 500L will be on display to the general public for the duration of the Philadelphia Auto Show (Saturday, January 30 – Sunday, February 7).

Here are the facts: the Texas Legislature passed a pro-woman health bill in 2013, and it was signed into law by then Governor Rick Perry. The common-sense law requires abortion providers to have admitting privileges at a local hospital in case of an emergency, and to keep their facilities up to standards for surgical centers.

But the new law exposed the poor treatment of women at over half of Texas abortion facilities. And so these substandard “medical” abortion facilities were forced to close their doors.

...so of course the abortion industry sued.

Now the Supreme Court must decide whether this Texas state law places an “undue burden” on women who are seeking an abortion. The decision will have a ripple effect and could cause a pro-life landslide across the states. It’s likely that this will be a close decision, with Justice Kennedy again likely casting the decisive vote.

If the Supreme Court rules in our favor, it would unravel the constitutional “right” to abortion -- which was invented in Roe v Wade -- and protect states whose legislatures have voted to limit abortion. Even radical pro-abortion organizations admit they’re alarmed by the facts of this case.

Your contributions are used to fund our legal team now working on our amicus brief. The brief will be filed with the Supreme Court.

This is a crucial moment for the pro-life movement. I hope you can help us.

P.S. Anyone from Texas will tell you that pro-life people in their state worked like crazy to get this law passed. There were massive rallies for and against. Pro-abortion protesters tried every trick in the book to stop it from succeeding.

We can’t let them down. Let’s make sure this case gets all the help it needs at the Supreme Court!

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® Presents LEGENDS - Prepare to witness circus feats you thought were so amazing that they would be impossible, and spectacles of strength so grand you once thought them to be unbelievable. Ringling Bros.® has combed the globe to find the most skilled circus masters for LEGENDS, be it the most majestic animals you've ever seen, the most exotic performers from faraway lands, or the most fearless daredevils that take danger to unheard of levels, this show has no equal anywhere. LEGENDS is going to take you on an adventure that will dazzle your senses, and redefine your sense of possibility!

*Offer valid on the face price of tickets. No double discounts. Additional fees and restriction may apply. Expires 2/4/2016 at 11:59 PM.

In a highly competitive in-person and remote auction, “Pope Francis’ Philly FIAT” was secured by Michael and Kate Chapman of Chapman Auto Stores. Mr. Chapman is a former Chairman of the Philadelphia Auto Show. The winning bid was $82,000. Conducted by Max Spann Real Estate & Auction Co., the auction featured more than 19 bidders from across the United States and lasted just 11 minutes.

“What a magnificent spirit of generosity we witnessed this evening,” said Bishop John J. McIntyre, Auxiliary Bishop for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. “To be able to auction the Papal FIAT in such a spirited environment while knowing that this incredible outcome allows us to spread Pope Francis’ message of love and care in a concrete way by supporting the charitable works of the Archdiocese is most gratifying. We extend a special thank you to the Philadelphia Auto Show and the Black Tie Tailgate for welcoming us here this evening and helping us to make this moment possible.”

The two FIAT 500Ls at the 2016 Philadelphia Auto Show were made available by FCA US LLC (“FIAT Chrysler”) for use in Philadelphia for the Papal visit to the United States. The United States Secret Service (USSS) provided the Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) of the vehicles used by the Holy Father in Philadelphia. The Archdiocese of Philadelphia confirmed that the VINs on the vehicles donated by FIAT Chrysler match the VINs identified by the USSS. While one of the FIAT 500Ls was auctioned, the second FIAT 500L used by Pope Francis during his visit to Philadelphia remains on display to the general public for the duration of the Philadelphia Auto Show (Saturday, January 30 – Sunday, February 7).

“How wonderful is it that the return of ‘Pope Francis’ Philly FIAT’ has left such an indelible mark, both in our city and in our lives,” said Donna Crilley Farrell, Executive Director of the World Meeting of Families – Philadelphia 2015. “We are grateful to our winning bidder, Michael and Kate Chapman of Chapman Auto stores, and we are so heartened by the fact that this extraordinary gift will go on to enrich the lives of so many individuals in the name of our Holy Father.”

Founded in 1808, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia is comprised of Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia County in the southeastern part of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. It is the spiritual home for over 1.4 million Catholics in the region in 219 parishes. Through its parish elementary schools, high schools, and schools of special education, the Archdiocese molds tomorrow’s leaders through innovative 21st century learning programs. Through the ministries of Catholic Social Services, it provides care for over 200,000 members of the community who are most in need each year who come from a broad array of faith backgrounds.

About the World Meetings of Families

Beginning with 1994, The Year of the Family, the Pontifical Council for the Family has been responsible for organizing the World Meetings of Families in Rome (1994); Rio de Janeiro (1997); Rome (2000); Manila (2003); Valencia (2006); Mexico City (2009); Milan (2012); and now, Philadelphia (2015). Since its inception by Saint John Paul II, the World Meeting of Families has sought to strengthen the sacred bonds of family across the globe.

About the Black Tie Tailgate and the Philadelphia Auto Show

The 2016 Black Tie Tailgate on Friday, Jan. 29, 2016, is produced by the Auto Dealers CARing for Kids Foundation. Guests will enjoy cocktails, hors d'oeuvres and live entertainment while getting a preview of the Show. Through the Auto Dealers CARing for Kids Foundation, the Black Tie Tailgate proceeds benefit the Division of Neurology at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). Total giving since 1986 surpasses $6.3 million. Black Tie Tailgate tickets are $225 per person and can be purchased at www.phillyautoshow.com/bttg.

The 2016 Philadelphia Auto Show, produced and owned by the Automobile Dealers Association of Greater Philadelphia, rolls into the Pennsylvania Convention Center Jan. 30 to Feb. 7. This year's event will feature 700 vehicles from more than 40 worldwide manufacturers. Highlights include an array of pre-production, hot production, classic, luxury, and exotic models. Ticket prices range from $7 to $14. For more information, visit phillyautoshow.com

Mere hours before Donald Trump‘s Iowa rally and Fox News’s GOP debate are set to square off, Save Jerseyans, the Donald escalated his war with Fox News star Megyn Kelly by calling her a ‘bimbo’ by way of retweet on his favorite social medium platform:

"Mercy is the foundation of the life of the Church: the first truth of the Church, indeed, is Christ's love", were the opening words of the Holy Father's discourse to the participants in the plenary assembly of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, whom he received in audience this morning in the Clementine Hall. The Pope went on to urge all the Christian people, both pastors and the faithful, to rediscover during this Jubilee the corporal and spiritual works of mercy as when, in the twilight of life, we are asked if we have given food to the hungry and given the thirsty water to drink, we will also be asked "if we have helped people to set their doubts aside, if we have committed ourselves to welcoming sinners, admonishing them and correcting them, if we have been able to combat ignorance, especially in relation to the Christian faith and the righteous life".

"In faith and in charity a cognitive and unifying relationship is established with the mystery of Love, which is God Himself. The effective mercy of God became, in Jesus, affective mercy, as He made Himself man for the salvation of mankind. The task entrusted to your Dicastery here finds its ultimate foundation and and adequate justification. Christian faith, indeed, is not only knowledge to be committed to memory, but also truth to live in love. Therefore, along with the doctrine of the faith, it is also necessary to safeguard the integrity of customs, particularly in the most delicate areas of life. Adhering to faith in the person of Christ implies both an act of reason and a moral response to His gift. In this respect, I thank you for all your commitment and the responsibility you exercise in treating cases of abuse of minors by members of the clergy".

"Safeguarding the integrity of faith and customs is a delicate task. Performing this mission well requires collegial commitment. … The correct synodality must be promoted at all levels of ecclesial life", added the Pope, citing in this respect the meeting organised by the Congregation with the Doctrinal Commissions of the Episcopal Conferences of Europe, enabling various doctrinal and pastoral challenges to be faced in a collegial way and thus inspiring in the faithful "a new missionary impulse and greater openness to the transcendent dimension of life, without which Europe runs the risk of losing its humanist spirit that it nevertheless loves and defends".

Another significant contribution of the Congregation to the renewal of ecclesial life was its study on complementarity between hierarchical and charismatic gifts, called upon to collaborate in synergy for the good of the Church and the world, and whose relationship evokes the Trinitarian root, the bond between the divine Word made flesh and the Holy Spirit, which is always a gift of the Father and the Son.

"It is precisely this root, if acknowledged and listened to humbly, that permits the Church to let herself be renewed at any time. … Unity and plurality are the seal of a Church that, moved by the Spirit, knows how to walk with a sure and faithful step towards the purpose that the Risen Lord has indicated to them throughout history. Here we see clearly how the synodal dynamic, if correctly understood, is born from communion and leads towards an increasingly implemented, deepened and extended, in the service of the life and the mission of the People of God".

The following commentary is from Philadelphia Archbishop Charles J. Chaput:

In September 2010, one of the great supporters of American Catholic education, Cardinal Timothy Dolan, issued a memorable call to action for our school leaders. It still has force today. In an article entitled “The Catholic Schools We Need” (America Magazine), he wrote: “It is time to recover our nerve and promote our schools for the 21st century. The current hospice mentality -- watching our schools slowly die -- must give way to a renewed confidence.”

That single line invites us all to take a harder look at our approach to Catholic education. Philadelphia is the diocese where St. John Neumann founded parochial Catholic schools, and the future of our Catholic schools depends on more than just the professional skills we have as leaders. It also and even more urgently depends on the spirit and mindset we bring to the people we lead.

For decades, Catholic dioceses have spent countless hours (and dollars) training our leaders in skills. One consultant showed us how to better manage enrollment. Another showed us how to better manage our finances. Another showed us what skills were key to being a successful leader. These things are clearly important. But one of the basic needs we sometimes missed was that no one came along and taught us how to transform our thinking in a way that produced results. No one taught us how to move from an unstated but powerful “hospice mentality” to a credible growth mentality.

Catholic schools have been in crisis since the 1970s. We’ve done a decent job managing a frustrating decline. But we need to realize that our problems aren’t finally about skills; they’re about winning back the faith of our people with strong academic content and even stronger confidence in Jesus Christ. There’s no “out of the box” solution to our predicament. We need educators with nimble, creative minds, in it for the long haul and unimpressed by all the reasons Catholic education “must” shrink. If we assume we’re in decline, then we’ll decline -- guaranteed. If we go forward with a bit more audacity, then good things are possible. So that’s what we’re trying to do here in Philadelphia.

In my 2014 pastoral letter on Catholic education, Equipping Saints, I wrote: “Today we continue the great witness begun many decades ago by the fourth bishop of Philadelphia, St. John Neumann. His energy and vision encouraged parishes to open the first Catholic elementary schools, and his success became a model for Church-sponsored education in our country.”

John Neumann had no professional consultants. He had a modest bag of skills. But he had tireless energy, vision and confidence in God’s help -- and that’s what we need to emulate. He was never stymied by what Catholics “couldn’t” do. He moved forward believing in what could be done and seeing what no one else could see.

It’s a busy time here as we celebrate our Catholic schools across the United States this week (January 31-February 6). As we work to move from hospice to hope, as we equip saints for life in this world and in the next, one thing is certain: This is a time to celebrate not just the great heritage of our Catholic schools – nostalgia is beautiful, but it’s no substitute for action – but also our schools’ vital mission for the future. We need to shout out the great gift they are to our nation and to the whole Philadelphia region – because that’s what they are. And with God’s help and yours, that’s what they always will be.

Thursday, January 28, 2016

Opera Philadelphia presents the East Coast Premiere of Cold Mountain, based on the National Book Award-winning novel by Charles Frazier with music by Pulitzer Prize winner Jennifer Higdon. It is a gripping story of love, honor, and determination set against the backdrop of the Civil War. Don’t miss a star-studded cast in what has been heralded as "the main event of this year’s season." — Opera News

A great museum ( a really must visit museum) has some very good news for you!

The National Museum of American Jewish History is pleased to announce that it will be offering free admission to all visitors throughout the month of February thanks to the support of an anonymous donor. Not only will visitors get to enjoy the entire core exhibition, but will also get a chance to see the iconic 1790 letter from George Washington to the Hebrew Congregation in Newport, Rhode Island in which the nation’s first president proclaims “to bigotry no sanction, to persecution no assistance,” underscoring the new nation’s commitment to religious liberty and equality for people of all faiths.

Ivy Barsky, CEO and Gwen Goodman Director of NMAJH, says “In making the month of February free to all visitors, we celebrate the right to religious freedom while making this historic, rarely displayed letter accessible to a wider audience.”

In addition to being able to see the George Washington letter, Free February at NMAJH will offer visitors complimentary access to the Museum’s core exhibition highlighting more than 360-years of Jewish life in America, themed tours, and a special exhibition, American Roots: The Andrews Family.

The exhibition American Roots: The Andrews Family, on view through March 7, tells the story of one family that can trace its roots back to our nation’s founding. Going back more than 300 years and eleven generations, the Andrews family tree includes one of the most well-known Jewish participants in the American Revolution, Haym Salomon (1740-1785). Visitors will have the opportunity to view artifacts from the family’s rich history.

As in prior years, the Museum will also be open and free on Presidents Day, Monday, February 15. Visitors on this special day will be treated to greetings from an actor portraying George Washington, interactive tours highlighting the theme of religious freedom, and family activities. They will also have the opportunity to write their own letters about freedom with a quill pen.

The Museum Café will help ward off the cold with hot chocolate and grilled cheese throughout the month.

The National Museum of American Jewish History, located on historic Independence Mall in Philadelphia, brings to life the 360-year history of Jews in America. Tracing the stories of how Jewish immigrants became Jewish Americans, the Museum invites visitors of all backgrounds to share their own stories and reflect on how their histories and identities shape and are shaped by the American experience. An open door for all, NMAJH honors the past and contributes to a better future by sharing the power of imagination and ideas, culture and community, leadership and service, in ways that turn inspiration into action.

The National Museum of American Jewish History is located at 101 South Independence Mall East at the corner of Fifth and Market Streets in Philadelphia. Museum hours are Tuesday to Friday, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, and Saturday and Sunday 10:00 am - 5:30 pm. NMAJH is closed most Mondays, including federal holidays and some Jewish holidays. Museum admission is $12.00 for adults, $11.00 for senior citizens and youth, free for children 12 and under, Museum Members, and active military with ID. For more information, visit NMAJH.org or call 215.923.3811.

In commemoration of National School Choice Week, Americans for Prosperity Foundation (AFPF) will participate in a special event, New Jersey School Choice Summit 2016, to be held on Friday, January 29 on the campus of St. Peter’s University in Jersey City.

New Jersey School Choice Summit 2016 will bring together a growing coalition of school choice advocates for an uplifting and inspiring discussion on advancing opportunities and parental choice in education.

“At Americans for Prosperity Foundation our mission is to ensure that all New Jerseyans have the opportunity to enjoy a truly prosperous life, and that starts with making sure that every child has the access to the best possible education,” explained AFP Foundation state director Erica Jedynak. “Our organization is excited to take part in what promises to be an enriching discussion on how we can move beyond the one-size-fits-all model of education and to empower parents to send their child to the school of their choice.”

Prior to joining AFPF, Jedynak worked as Deputy to Chief of Staff for Assemblywoman DeCroce, who served on Education, Higher Education, Women & Children, and the Joint Committee for Public Schools. Jedynak also previously served in the National Conference of State Legislatures’ Education Network and participated in NCSL and the Education Commission of the States’ “Turning Around Low-Performing Schools” Seminar in Washington, D.C. with policy experts and school leaders from across the country.

Tomorrow, Jedynak will take part in a panel discussion titled "Education Reforms Needed Throughout New Jersey” scheduled to begin at 3PM. Joining her on the panel will be David Hespe, NJ Commissioner of Education, Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli (R-16) and Laura Waters, NJ Left Behind. The panel will be moderated by Muhammed Akil, Executive Director of Parent Coalition For Excellent Education. A full agenda for Friday’s summit can be found here.

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact Mike Proto at mproto@afphq.org or by phone at (201) 400-3666.

Americans for Prosperity Foundation (AFP Foundation) is dedicated to educating men and women about the principles of freedom and how those apply to their everyday lives. Our goal is to provide people with the knowledge and tools to use these principles to thrive at work, home and in their communities. Our programs enable Americans to understand why freedom is the key to long-term success, happiness and wellbeing. AFP Foundation counts over 2.3 million citizen leaders in all 50 states. AFP Foundation has 34 state chapters and affiliates. More than 100,000 Americans in all 50 states have made a financial contribution to AFP or AFP Foundation. For more information, visit http://www.americansforprosperityfoundation.com/

Wednesday, January 27, 2016

One Book, One Philadelphia Kickoff Event Featuring Charles Frazier, Jennifer Higdon, and Performances from Opera Philadelphia and the Curtis Institute of Music

Tuesday, February 2, 2016 at 7:30PM; FREE

No tickets or reservations required. For more info: 215-567-4341

Charles Frazier, the 2016 One Book, One Philadelphia featured author, and Jennifer Higdon, composer of the opera Cold Mountain, will discuss the intersection of literature and music with Jennifer Lynn of WHYY. The evening will conclude with an excerpt from Opera Philadelphia's Cold Mountain, as well as an original musical work inspired by the novel Cold Mountain, composed by Rene Orth of the Curtis Institute of Music and performed by Curtis violinist Abigail Fayette. A book signing by Charles Frazier will follow the event.

LEADING VOICES: Adam Grant | Originals: How Non-Conformists Move the World

The youngest tenured and most highly rated professor at the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School of Business, Adam Grant is a sought-after expert on work success, motivation, and giving and helping behaviors for a range of clients that includes Google, Goldman Sachs, Pixar, the United Nations, the NFL, and the U.S. Army. He is a contributing op-ed writer for the New York Times and the author of the bestselling and widely translated Give and Take. His research has been highlighted in acclaimed and bestselling books by the likes of Malcolm Gladwell, Daniel Pink, and Nicolas Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn. Originals studies stories of success from the trailblazers who shape the realms of business, sports, politics, and entertainment. A copy of the book is included with the ticket price. Please join us for a complimentary breakfast at 7:30 AM.

The host of the NPR radio program The Diane Rehm Show for more than 35 years, Diane Rehm offers a levelheaded take on current events that is a daily must-listen for millions of people nationally and internationally. In addition to covering topics ranging from landscape architecture to media in the Middle East to Joyce's Ulysses, the venerable host has interviewed some of the most prominent politicos, entertainers, and artists of our time. Rehm has earned a multitude of accolades for her work, including a National Humanities Medal and a Peabody Award. Her new memoir tells the story of the drawn-out death of her husband of 54 years, as well as her fight to build a new life without him.

Of Interest

Young Professionals Book Club and Film Screening with the Raven Society and VIVACE

Thursday, February 4, 2016 at 6:00PM; Skyline Room

Take part in an interactive discussion of the book Cold Mountain and watch clips from the film along with members of the Raven Society, the Free Library's young professional group of supporters who share a passion for literacy; as well as VIVACE, Opera Philadelphia's community of young professionals. Beer, wine, and light refreshments will be served. RSVP recommended. To learn more, visit www.freelibrary.org/onebook.

The National Museum of American Jewish History is pleased to announce an engaging variety of winter programs for visitors of all ages.

Jewish Comedy: A History, in Five Jokes – SOLD OUT!

Sunday, January 31 at 4 pm

FREE, advance registration encouraged.

Is there a definition of Jewish humor? When it did start? Where is it heading? Jeremy Dauber, director of Columbia's Institute for Israel and Jewish Studies and author of a recent biography on Sholem Aleichem will answer these and many other questions in a talk on Jewish comedy's long and wide reach over two millennia—and will tell the greatest Jewish joke in history into the bargain. (At least in one man's opinion.)In partnership with the Herbert D. Katz Center for Advanced Judaic Studies at the University of Pennsylvania.

Telling It the Way It Was with Arlene Alda

Wednesday, February 3 at 7 pm

$15/Free for Members

Gain firsthand insights from Fulbright Scholar, author, and professional clarinetist Arlene Alda as she takes visitors on a journey to the Bronx through oral histories that span six decades, from Carl Reiner to Neil DeGrasse Tyson, weaving together one film-like portrait of this beloved borough.

Just Kids From the Bronx: Telling It the Way It Was will be available for sale and signing.

In the spirit of the Free Library’s One Book, One Philadelphia program, which promotes reading and literacy for all ages, families are invited to grab a book and relax on a couch or comfy chair, or to find a cozy spot in the galleries to read together. Families can also get creative by making bookmarks to take home and use when reading some of their own books!

Presidents Day at NMAJH

Monday, February 15 from 10 am to 5 pm

Free

Visitors are invited to celebrate Presidents Day at the Museum and explore how American leaders impacted history, American society, and the American Jewish community. Visitors to the Museum can meet George Washington* and examine his original 1790 letter to the Jewish community of Newport, Rhode Island, which declares the importance of religious freedom. Kids of any age will have the opportunity to write their own letters with a quill pen, have fun with interactive storytelling, and take part in other arts and crafts projects including designing wearable masks that look like Washington or Lincoln, paper puppets, and campaign buttons.

From 12 pm to 2 pm there will be a free sensory-friendly event, accessible to children, teens, and adults with special needs. Visitors are welcome to enter a quiet space in the Museum where they will enjoy activities to mark Presidents Day and Jewish Disabilities Awareness Month (JDAM). Participants will hear a story about freedom during a special guided tour, and explore the Museum with a tailored exhibition fact-finding sheet, all in a comfortable and accepting environment. WCI and JCHAI volunteers will be on hand to support participants in the program.

In partnership with Whole Community Inclusion and JCHAI

*A George Washington impersonator

Young Friends Curated Cocktails

Thursday, February 18 from 6 pm to 8 pm

$12/Free for Young Friends Members

Young adults are invited to view the Museum's newest installation, American Roots: The Andrews Family, with Chief Registrar and Associate Curator Claire Pingel and stay for cocktails afterwards. American Roots tells the story of one of the few American families that can trace its ancestry back to the nation’s founding—the Andrews family.

The Andrews family traces its history in America back over 300 years and eleven generations, and their family tree includes one of the most well-known Jewish participants in the American Revolution, Haym Salomon (1740-1785).

A FIAT 500L used by Pope Francis during his historic visit to Philadelphia in September 2015, today helped to mark the official countdown until the opening of the 2016 Philadelphia Auto Show as it made a grand entrance into the Pennsylvania Convention Center during Auto Dealers Association of Greater Philadelphia’s “Mayor’s Drive-In.”

One of three cars selected to kick-off the annual festivities with Mayor James F. Kenney, the FIAT 500L was driven by Chuck Keating, Band Director for Bishop Shanahan High School and father of Michael Keating, the young boy with cerebral palsy who Pope Francis blessed at the airport upon his arrival in Philadelphia. Mr. Keating’s passenger in the Fiat for the Mayor’s Drive-In was Bobby Hill, the young performer from the Keystone State Boychoir who performed Andrew Lloyd Webber's "Pie Jesu” for Pope Francis at the Festival of Families.

A second FIAT 500L, also used by Pope Francis in Philadelphia, will be on display to the general public for the duration of the Auto Show (Saturday, January 30 – Sunday, February 7).

“Since the Papal visit, so many people have expressed how meaningful Pope Francis’ use of the FIAT was in terms of his message of humility,” said Donna Crilley Farrell, Executive Director for the World Meeting of Families – Philadelphia 2015. “We are proud to be able to offer people in our community the chance to view one of these cars throughout the week of the Auto Show. We are also so happy that Chuck Keating and Bobby Hill were able to help us mark this special moment, as their unexpected yet once-in-a-lifetime roles in the Papal visit have become just as iconic as the Fiat itself. The Papal moments in which Chuck, with his family, and Bobby we part of moved so many to tears of joy – truly differentiating the Philadelphia visit from other cities.”

Founded in 1808, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia is comprised of Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia County in the southeastern part of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. It is the spiritual home for over 1.4 million Catholics in the region in 219 parishes. Through its parish elementary schools, high schools, and schools of special education, the Archdiocese molds tomorrow’s leaders through innovative 21st century learning programs. Through the ministries of Catholic Social Services, it provides care for over 200,000 members of the community who are most in need each year who come from a broad array of faith backgrounds.

About the World Meetings of Families

Beginning with 1994, The Year of the Family, the Pontifical Council for the Family has been responsible for organizing the World Meetings of Families in Rome (1994); Rio de Janeiro (1997); Rome (2000); Manila (2003); Valencia (2006); Mexico City (2009); Milan (2012); and now, Philadelphia (2015). Since its inception by Saint John Paul II, the World Meeting of Families has sought to strengthen the sacred bonds of family across the globe.

About the Black Tie Tailgate and the Philadelphia Auto Show

The 2016 Black Tie Tailgate on Friday, Jan. 29, 2016, is produced by the Auto Dealers CARing for Kids Foundation. Guests will enjoy cocktails, hors d'oeuvres and live entertainment while getting a preview of the Show. Through the Auto Dealers CARing for Kids Foundation, the Black Tie Tailgate proceeds benefit the Division of Neurology at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). Total giving since 1986 surpasses $6.3 million. Black Tie Tailgate tickets are $225 per person and can be purchased at www.phillyautoshow.com/bttg.

The 2016 Philadelphia Auto Show, produced and owned by the Automobile Dealers Association of Greater Philadelphia, rolls into the Pennsylvania Convention Center Jan. 30 to Feb. 7. This year's event will feature 700 vehicles from more than 40 worldwide manufacturers. Highlights include an array of pre-production, hot production, classic, luxury, and exotic models. Ticket prices range from $7 to $14. For more information, visit phillyautoshow.com

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About Dan Cirucci

He has been cited by Rush Limbaugh, quoted in the New York Times, featured at Real Clear Politics and Lucianne.com and interviewed on radio, TV and in social media.

He's Dan Cirucci, the founder and editor-in chief of the Dan Cirucci Blog and one of the most widely honored public relations professionals in his field. He's also a public relations consultant to numerous organizations and individuals.

For many years he served as a Lecturer in Corporate Communication at Penn State University. A former President of the Philadelphia Public Relations Association (PPRA) he has lectured at Rowan University, Temple University, The College of New Jersey and Arcadia University. He has conducted workshops on public relations for thousands of participants throughout the nation and has taught countless others the art of public speaking. He has also advised numerous lawyers, judges, public officials and political candidates.

Cirucci is a prolific writer and his op-ed pieces have appeared in the Philadelphia Daily News, Philadelphia Inquirer, Courier-Post and other publications.

A native of Camden NJ, Cirucci is a former President of the Philadelphia chapter of the International Association of Business Communicators. Cirucci served as Associate Executive Director of the Philadelphia Bar Association for nearly 30 years. He currently serves as Chair of Penn State University's Professional Advisory Board for the Corporate Communication major at Penn State Abington.

He received his MA degree from Rowan University and his BA from Villanova University. He has been named a Distinguished Alumnus of Rowan's public relations program and was inducted into the Philadelphia Public Relations Hall of Fame in 2003. He received the E. A. "Wally" Richter Leadership Award from the National Association of Bar Executives' Communications Section. The Award is the Section's highest honor. He has also been honored by numerous other local, state and national groups.

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Why politics?

"I love politics. Politics is serious, earnest, crucial, necessary—the venue in which we decide much of our country’s future. Beyond that I love the great game of it—the wins and losses, flubs and failures. The mess, the occasional glory. Even at its most disappointing high politics is the greatness game. Its necessities—caring, taking part, voting—remind us that, as Laurens van der Post once said, we are living not only our own lives but the life of our times." -Peggy Noonan